Barako Bull needs big man to boost frontline

Barako Bull, formerly Red Bull, is in search of two other players in addition to new recruit John Arigo to strengthen the team hoping to make an impact in the coming PBA Fiesta Conference.

Team manager Andy Jao said they are specifically looking for a big man to beef up their frontline.

The George Chua-owned franchise has gained additional offensive options on its acquisition of John Arigo and the return of Reed Juntilla.

The rest of the fighting Red Bull squad in Leo Najorda, Warren Ybanez, Magnum Membrere, Jojo Duncil, Carlo Sharma, Mike Hraback, Gabby Espinas, Paulo Hubaldez, Jeff Chan, Larry Rodriguez and Mike Holper have been retained.

The team, now known as the Energy Boosters, had its first practice under coach Leo Isaac at the RFM Gym in Mandaluyong yesterday.

“Nothing much will change. Barako Bull’s playing style – go, go, go, never-say-die and fight-to-the-finish – will remain,” said Isaac, who has Gee Abanilla, Ariel Vanguardia and Raymond Celis as assistant coaches.

The new coaching staff was introduced to the players and the management in a meeting in their Quezon City office Wednesday night. Gracing the occasion was cage legend Robert Jaworski who is a good friend of George Chua.

“Introducing Barako Bull in the Fiesta Conference is very timely,” said former PBA chair and team governor Tony Chua. “The new energy drink, like the team, can easily satisfy the public because it boasts superior taste, long-lasting efficacy and is the most affordably priced among all power boosters.”

Now on its 10th year in the PBA, the franchise has so far won three titles, emerged No. 2 twice and No. 3 four times and made it to the Final Four a record seven straight times.

Among the team’s former local and foreign stars are Ray Tutt, Tony Lang, Julius Nwusu, James Penny, Adam Parada, Willie Miller, Kerby Raymundo, Mic Pennisi, Davonn Harp, Enrico Villanueva, Junthy Valenzuela, Lordy Tugade, Cyrus Baguio, Larry Fonacier and Rich Alvarez.